Ray Smith (cricketer)
Ray Smith (10 August 1914 – 21 February 1996) was an English cricketer. He played for Essex between 1934 and 1956.[1] CareerSmith was a prominent all-rounder in the post-war Essex cricket team, alongside his cousin Peter.[2] He was known for his dynamic bowling, often initiating the attack with rapid in-swingers, and then switching to less effective off-breaks.[2] Smith's batting was sporadically powerful, with three of his eight first-class centuries recorded as the fastest in their respective seasons.[2] Notably harsh on off-spinners, he once left bowler Jim Laker exasperated.[2] Contrary to fast-bowling norms, Smith's appeals were delivered in a soft, aristocratic voice.[2] Retiring in 1956, he missed the introduction of one-day cricket but had an accomplished career as a coach at Felsted and ran a restaurant outside Birmingham.[2] His final home match saw Essex secure its first victory over Yorkshire since the war, with Smith scoring the winning runs.[2] References
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